Are you interested in dental implants? Have you just received one or more dental implants but want more information about post-operative care? We can help. Our dental office provides single and multiple dental implants to secure a dental crown, dental bridge, or denture. Dental implants are one of the most effective dental restorations because they last for many years, blend in with the smile, and feel like natural teeth. Here we can review dental implant post-op care for patients in Arlington Heights, IL, and beyond.
How to Care For Your Dental Implants in Arlington Heights
There are many things to remember as dental implants begin to heal. During this osseointegration healing process, the implant posts fuse to the jaw bone to create a stable foundation for dental restoration. We have multiple tips for patients as implants heal:
Do
During the implant healing process:
- Brush and Floss Daily: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gently floss around your implant caps. We can show you how to floss directly after implant treatment and after we place your final restoration. Brushing and flossing remove decay-causing bacteria from around the new implants.
- Eat Soft Foods: We recommend that you eat soft foods like mashed potatoes, pasta, and yogurt for several days following the implant procedure. You can also cut foods into small pieces. If you can, avoid biting near the implant caps to minimize discomfort.
- Schedule Your Next Visit: Our dental office will help you schedule follow-up visits. During these visits, we will examine your smile, and you can let us know how your implants feel. You can also ask us any remaining questions you have about caring for your implants during the healing process.
Don’t
After you receive implants, avoid:
- Abrasive Toothpaste: Some types of whitening toothpaste can contain charcoal, baking soda, and other abrasive ingredients. Avoid this toothpaste because it can wear the natural tooth enamel and damage new dental restorations, even implant caps.
- Smoking and Tobacco Products: Smoking cigarettes, vaping, and using other products that contain tobacco can actually hinder the healing process. Nicotine restricts blood flow to the gums and makes the healing process slower. Ultimately, dental implants can fail to fuse with the jawbone because blood is not flowing to the gum and bone tissue.
- Crunchy, Sugary Foods: We ask that patients stick to a soft diet because hard or crunchy foods can irritate the implant site. Consuming too much sugar can also lead to tooth decay and gum disease. It is important to be especially careful with your oral health after implant treatment. Avoiding foods that can damage or irritate the smile and sticking to a soft diet can ensure a smooth healing process.
Do you have any questions about your dental implants? Contact AH Smiles today at (847) 230-9703. You can also request a dental appointment with Dr. Brent Engelberg on our website. We will be happy to help during the implant process. Our dental team will work with you throughout the implant process to ensure that you get the proper instructions for post-op care.